The Government is investing in the Education sector, said today the President of the Republic, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, noting that Education is the most important sector of governance.
In statements to journalists, on the sidelines of his visit to the Paralimni High School, accompanied by the Minister of Education, Sports and Youth Dr. Athena Michaelidou, on the occasion of the start of classes in the context of the new school year, the President of the Republic said: "Today I am visiting one of the largest High Schools in Cyprus, in an area that the Government approaches with particular sensitivity, an area that is high on our priorities. And it was precisely in this context that we not only invested a significant amount to upgrade the existing High School – approximately 5,5 million euros – but as I promised at the provincial meeting that took place here in the area, in Paralimni, today we will also sign the relevant contracts for the construction of a new High School, which will also include an Athletic High School. A cost that amounts to approximately 15 million euros.
I have mentioned many times that the sectors of Education and Health are two sectors that we as a State give particular emphasis to.
Education affects all policy sectors horizontally. In these two and a half years of governance, we have made progress with several innovations concerning curricula, career guidance, and the connection of the labor market with education.
The famous issue of air conditioning in schools when we took over was about 10%. Today we are at 45%. The Free Famagusta District has one of the highest percentages in terms of air conditioning. A very good job is being done and I want to thank the School Boards and the parents because there is a very good collaboration.
We are moving forward, investing in the Education sector. It is the most important sector of governance. I am here today to discuss with the children, to see how we can move forward further, what else we need to do, in order to upgrade Education even further.”
In response to a journalist's observation that there are several reactions regarding the construction of the green Technical School in Dali, the President of the Republic said: "This Government - I have said it many times - is also investing in Technical education. Let me remind you that this year, for the first time, two Technical High Schools are operating on a pilot basis. I am happy because we have a record number of enrollments in technical education, a record that even exceeds the rates of 2013. Before 2013, we had such rates. And we will continue to build other Technical Schools, where and where needs arise. Certainly, if there could be a High School, Primary School or Technical School in every Municipality, in every Community, we would do it, but you understand that we must act on the basis of a strategic plan."
